Film
T-Max
100: Great for portraits where a smooth non-grainy effect
is desired, especially if prints need to be larger that 5
X 7. Limitations: Need ample lighting and subjects in motion
will blur.
T-Max
400: More versatile than 100 with less grain than Tri-X. Both
are fine films depending on your desired effect, but I prefer
all the T-Max films in general.
The
Shoot: People
Have
your subject wear light colored clothing with some contrast,
but not too much. Extremely dark colors will appear almost
black on the print & the paints will not show up. Use a flash
when necessary to avoid dark facial shadow even in the daylight
if it is overcast or shady.
If
you are photographing children, props are a great way to add
interest & charm. Some ideas include hats, pearls, dress-ups,
hat boxes, teddy bears, cover -alls, flowers, etc.
The
Shoot: Landscapes
Shoot
early morning or late afternoon for best light conditions
know as "sweet light". Be prepared for great opportunities
before and after storms.
Film
Developing
When
you have your film processed, you will have a choice between
individual 3 X 5 prints or a Proof Sheet. The proof sheet
is about half the cost but the prints are easier to see. Ask
for Matte finish prints, not glossy, also, ask your printer NOT to use hardener in the fixer
as it will prevent easy color application
Fiber-based
Paper:
Advantages:
Great for hand coloring because it absorbs the paints well
and it is very easy to work with.
Disadvantage:
Not easily available & more expensive.
Resin-coated:
(RC Paper)
Advantages:
Available at most all labs, less expensive.
Disadvantages: Must use Marshalls Color Pre Spray before paints
can be applied if deeper colors are desired. Without it the
colors will be very soft pastel & paints will tend to slide
around rather than absorb.
Ink
Jet Prints
Advantages:
They are an inexpensive solution for practice or work prints
but be sure to use Photo Quality Paper. Let the print dry
for a few hours for a harder surface. You may also need to
use the Pre Spray on this paper.
Disadvantages:
The quality may be nice but it is not a photo and it shows. I have tried a few types of papers, and Marshall's has a very nice paper that is as archival as your printer ink.
Getting
Started
Basic
Tips on Hand Coloring
Hand
Wrapping a Cotton Skewer
Marshall Oil's Guide to Hand Coloring Black & White Photography (PDF)
FAQ
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